Indian actors get involved in politics

Bollywood stars stump for others, run for office

By SHALINI DORE

Indian actors have always been active in politics. Unlike in the U.S., however, their involvement is revered. In the current general election for India's parliament, about a half-dozen thesps are candidates, including a pair facing off against each other in the state of Bihar.

For those not considering a second career in politics, there are other opportunities. Some political parties are willing to pay celebs to tubthump for their candidates. And since the election commission is starting to frown on paid endorsements, a few are offering designer duds instead.

The top earner among these has been Salman Khan ("Marigold"), who campaigned for both the Congress and rival Bharatiya Janata Party, collecting 2 million rupees ($40,000) per appearance, plus paid travel and hotel expenses, natch, according to website Rediff.

And why not, asks a rep who points out the celebs have to schlep in the sticks in scorching heat.